FAQ's

Where does ReThrive get their strings?

ReThrive Designs uses strings from multiple sources. For many years, we created all our jewelry from used strings, but that is no longer possible. We take donations from guitar players all over the country and we will gladly accept yours. Visit our contact page and send us a message. We can even create jewelry for you or your loved ones using your strings. We also have a partnership with Black Diamond Guitar Strings.

What are guitar strings made of?

Silver strings are about 90% stainless with small amounts of nickel. Some are all stainless. The gold strings are made of bronze. The rose gold colored strings are made of phosphorus bronze, which is a combination of bronze and copper. 

What beads and findings do you use?

We use assorted beads & findings in our designs including: stainless, bronze, solid copper, pewter, antique silver plated, gold plate over stainless, freshwater pearls, crystals, ceramic and stone. Almost all bracelets are finished with stainless ends, 15mm lobster clasps and a stainless split ring chain. If gold is required, the piece has gold plate over stainless lobster clasps and a matching or stainless chain. If rose gold or copper, we use copper clasps, antique copper or stainless chains. 

What about tarnishing?

We cannot guarantee that plated materials will not tarnish. This is why we aim to use the least amount of plated materials as possible. Tarnishing does depend on how acidic your skin is. Please note that ReThrive Jewelry cannot determine how your skin will respond to guitar strings nor how the guitar strings will react to your skin.  We do recommend storing jewelry, with plated materials, in a air tight storage baggie with anti-tarnish strips. We do not provide the strips for you! You can purchase these online. Silver strings are about 90% stainless with small amounts of nickel. Some are all stainless. Silver strings generally do not tarnish, however, when exposed to constant contact with salt water, all stainless can corrode.  The gold strings are made of bronze and they deepen color with age. We personally like the color of aged bronze. The rose gold colored strings are made of phosphorus bronze, which is a combination of bronze and copper. These strings respond much like copper and they will tarnish or patina much more quickly. The major factor impacting this is your skin chemistry and or how hot and sweaty you may be while wearing the jewelry. ReThrive is not responsible for how your skin may or may not react to phosphorus bronze strings. 

How do I clean my jewelry?

We recommend Brasso Metal Polish for all strings. Brasso is easy to use and helps polish the strings. If you do all these things, you should be able to enjoy your ReThrive Jewelry for years to come. You can polish silver plated beads or findings with a jewelry cloth. 

What happens is something breaks?

We are glad you asked this question. First of all, it is rare for guitar strings to break after they are made into jewelry. I have pieces that are over 8 years old and still going strong. Each design has unique elements that may or may not affect the life of the piece. If you are someone who is rough on jewelry, then this can have an impact on how long it lasts. If your piece breaks and we can repair it, we will. Repairs cost $10.00 or more which includes return shipping. For all repair questions or concerns, please send us a message. We will do our best to satisfy each and every request.